Upper Dam

DEER CREEK· Chautauqua, Kansas· Built 1935· 35 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Upper Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 35 ft (taller than 85.9% in KS)
Dam Length800 ft
Max Storage1.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage827 acre-ft
Surface Area57 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDKS02462

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 29, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KS Dept. of Agriculture

Ownership

SEDAN, CITY OF

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Upper Dam?

Upper Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Upper Dam?

Upper Dam is owned by SEDAN, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Upper Dam built?

Upper Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Upper Dam?

Upper Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Upper Dam?

Upper Dam has a dam height of 35 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Upper Dam last inspected?

Upper Dam was last inspected on July 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.